Back Pain 101
Back pain is an ailment that few fail to encounter at some point in their lives. It can range from a shooting, stabbing sensation to a dull ache, and often leads individuals to request days off work once its disabling effects begin to impact everyday activities.
Recently cited as the sixth most expensive medical condition in America, back pain contributes to $12 billion a year in healthcare costs. Approximately 65 million Americans experience some form of back pain, whether it be from muscle overuse, prolonged sitting, or incorrect posture. Back pain is considered chronic when symptoms last longer than three months, often resulting from underlying conditions or other factors. Common treatments for chronic back pain include prescription and over-the-counter pain medications, physical therapy, interventional procedures, and in advanced cases, sometimes surgery.
Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) represent a commonly performed therapeutic intervention for relieving persistent back pain. Their effectiveness is proven, but overuse can lead to side effects ranging from mild to severe. Thus, moderation is key to achieving the perfect balance between maximizing therapeutic relief and minimizing unfavorable side effects.